Very Important Dog Legislation Affects Veterans
The Franken-Isakson Service Dogs for Veterans Act has passed the U.S. Senate. The bipartisan Act would establish a pilot program within the Veterans Administration that would pair disabled veterans with service dogs. Sponsors believe that increasing the number of service dogs would reduce the suicide rate, decrease the number of hospitalizations, lower the cost of medications and result in reduced health care costs, especially for those with post-traumatic stress disorder and brain injuries. Fifty percent of the veterans are expected to be suffering from mental health disabilities, with the balance composed of those with physical injuries or disabilities. The Act mandates partnership with non-profit agencies that do not charge for their animals, services or lodging. The project will last a minimum of three years. Funding will be provided for the first 50 service dogs, with matching funds for the agencies for the balance of dogs.
Could Michael Vick make an important contribution in the success of this program? The program needs attention and the non-profits will need funding.
MEET THE BREEDS–DOGS . . . . AND CATS!
Saturday and Sunday, October 17th and 18th, the American Kennel Club and Cat Fanciers Association are holding a showcase of dogs and cats at New York’s Jacob Javits Center. According to the organizers there will be over 160 dog breeds and 41 cat breeds with breeders on hand to give advice. In addition there will be demonstrations, including agility, obedience, K-9 Search and Rescue, grooming and more. Tickets are available through www.meetthebreeds.com
CCA (CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMATION ASSESSMENT)
According to Golden Retriever breeders the majority of dogs born never are evaluated on their confirmation–that is, how they meet the breed standard. The majority of dogs become companions or compete in obedience, agility, etc. The CCA, a non-competitive evaluation by three judges, gives breeders a way to learn how closely the puppies they are breeding meet the standard’s requirements. The evaluation is private and the results are not published. The CCA evaluation is designed to be a teaching tool for small breeders who want their puppies to be assets to the world of dogs. It was developed by Golden Retriever breeders to protect the quality of their breed for future generations. The text and rules of the CCA can be found on the web site www.gra.org.
DOROTHY NICKLES
“I never judge without love for every dog that steps into my ring. I’ve seen great dogs and not so-great dogs, but I never forget that inside very one of them is a beautiful soul.” This quote is from Dorothy Nickles, who died at the age of 99. She had been judging dogs for 57 years.
PAUSE BEFORE PURCHASING
Think about those biscuits and cat treats that allegedly ensure cleaner teeth before purchasing. The only study I could find that evaluated the Hartz product, for example, was done in 1995 and involved a SHMP (sodium hexametaphosphate) coating. SHMP is a common food additive safe for dogs and people that does reduce calculus formation. Once, again, pause before purchasing.
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Aug 18, 2009 | | Uncategorized